The Transfer Tavern

£6 million deal for Joe Bryan would be excellent business from Newcastle United

Newcastle United have had a relatively modest transfer window so far as only two players have arrived at St James’ Park, one of which was a free transfer.

Rafa Benitez’s frustration in the transfer market looks set to continue whilst cash-strapped Mike Ashley remains at the helm.

Recent reports suggest that Newcastle will target Solomon Rondon from West Bromwich Albion once they have sold Aleksandar Mitrovic to Fulham, but another Championship star could be following the Venezuelan to Tyneside this summer according to The Sun.

According to the report, Newcastle are set to table a £6 million bid for Bristol City’s Joe Bryan this summer in a bid to bolster their options on the left-side of defence and midfield.

Bryan is left-back by trade who likes to move forward with the ball and make a difference in the final-third – a quality which he demonstrated to devastating effect against Manchester United last season.

After impressing in The Robin’s 4-1 demolition of Crystal Palace in the 4th round of the Carabao Cup, Bryan shot to fame with a stunning opener against Manchester United in their 2-1 quarter-final victory.

Bristol City’s manager Lee Johnson got his tactics spot on that evening as he moved Bryan further forward into a left-wing role where the 24-year-old was able to express himself in the final-third and offer solid protection in-front of the full-back.

With Newcastle expected to be facing another relegation battle next season, there’s no doubt that his versatility and balanced approach to playing out wide could be a valuable asset to call upon in fixtures against the top-six clubs.

Bryan’s arrival would also provide strong competition for fan-favourite Paul Dummet and allow Benitez the opportunity to utilise Kenedy’s creative qualities in a number ten role behind Rondon or Dwight Gayle.

For a small price of just £6 million there’s no doubt that Newcastle would be getting plenty for their money, so Ashley must stump up the cash for Bryan as soon as possible to secure a bargain acquisition.